Barcelona is reportedly eyeing Erling Haaland as a replacement for Lionel Messi. The 23-year-old has been outstanding for Manchester City, scoring 38 goals and assisting six times in 45 games last season. Despite his agent’s claims of his strong commitment to City’s project, rumors persist about Haaland’s potential departure from the Etihad.
Barcelona plans to attract elite players like Haaland by leveraging a lucrative kit deal with Nike worth £127 million per season. This financial boost aims to help the Spanish club address its budget constraints while striving to keep pace with Real Madrid. The club views Haaland as the ideal candidate to fill the void left by Messi in 2021. Additionally, Arsenal’s William Saliba is being considered to strengthen Barca’s defense.
Elsewhere, Christos Mandas, linked with City, might move to Old Trafford. Lazio’s current third-choice goalkeeper is seeking regular game time, making a switch likely. Reports also suggest Lazio might use Mandas as part of a deal to acquire Mason Greenwood from Manchester United. While United demands £40 million for Greenwood, a new goalkeeper isn’t a top priority for manager Erik ten Hag.
